Mark L. Perthel, Ambassador Theatre Group Talent Buyer, Passes

Mark L. Perthel,  VP of Ambassador Theatre Group North America’s Music Division, passed away on June 24, 2022, at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville. He was 62.

“Mark was highly regarded across the industry,” said Stephen Lewin, CEO of Ambassador Theatre Group, North America, in a statement. “For many of us at ATG, Mark was a colleague, a mentor, and a friend. Above all, we will miss his warm nature and friendly smile.”

Over the course of his forty years in the entertainment industry, Perthel held top talent-buying positions at Six Flags Theme Parks, Disney World, Bethlehem Musikfest and SMG North America.

Perthel began his career in tour accounting at Phoenix Management, working with artists including The Police, U2, and Madonna. He started MP Presents in 2002 where he presented, promoted, and managed concerts and festivals throughout the southeastern U.S.

In 2009, Perthel joined Ambassador Theatre Group, North America as primary talent buyer for the south central/southeast US. Venues he programmed included the Majestic Theatre in San Antonio, TX, Smart Financial Centre in Sugar Land, TX, which he helped open, and the Saenger Theatre in New Orleans.

In November 2019 Perthel was named Ambassador’s VP of Programming.

Executives from across the live industry paid tribute to Perthel.

“Mark was honest, he was direct, he listened, and he had a vision,” said Dan Weiner, Senior Vice President at Wasserman Music.

“He was a man of character, conviction, and incredibly devoted to his family,” said Mario Tirado of CAA. “If it is true that the music business is one built on relationships it is no wonder, we stayed friends with an incredible success rate on the shows we did for more than thirty years. He was a rock to many and a sympathetic ear to others. I will miss our talks tremendously.”

“… he made the business a brighter place,” wrote Charlie Brusco of Red Light  Management.

“He was the most sincere, knowledgeable, and kind person in the entertainment business,” said Dan Markham, Executive Director of Arena Booking and Management for Gas South Arena. “His integrity was genuine, and his wit and humor knew no bounds.”

Those wishing to pay their respects may donate in Mark’s name to MusiCares.org or the Nashville Rescue Mission.